Numeracy

We implement a whole school approach to developing the numeracy skills of all of the students at BHNPS. We focus on developing mathematical understanding, fluency, logical reasoning, analytical thought and problem solving skills.

We aim to equip students with the mathematical strategies necessary for their school life and real world contexts and appreciate that mathematics is an essential and relevant part of life. In each level, in some form we covers aspects of number, space, measurement, chance and data, working mathematically and structure.

We believe learning numeracy is more effective when it is interesting, enjoyable and challenging. Our approach to numeracy aims to further develop a student’s confidence, knowledge, understanding, appreciation, curiosity and most of all a love of mathematics.

We use digital technologies and tools to support mathematical exploration and consolidation of skills; A vast array of concrete resources to assist with hands on learning for Prep to Grade 6 and access to online mathematics programs and resources e.g. Mathletics and Big Brainz.

NAPLAN Growth Achievements

In 2018, Box Hill North Primary School achieved substantially above average gain (or ‘growth’) in NAPLAN Numeracy. We are one out of 64 schools across Victoria to achieve this during 2018 and recently received a congratulatory letter from ACARA, who officially publishes all Victorian school results from the previous year on the My School website, which is accessed by the public annually at this time of the year. We believe our successful results from a strong focus on using student performance data to investigate what we call “a particular problem of practice”, rather than work on improving everything at once. In numeracy, our school program has focused specifically on problem solving. Teaching effective problem solving strategies enables our students to find individual and creative ways to address numeracy challenges.

Success in growth is not about students gaining the highest score, it is about gaining the most growth in learning from each student over a period of 12 months, no matter if these students have started from a lower point of learning or are high achievers. We successfully gained above average growth in every area of literacy during 2018, and substantially above average growth in numeracy (only one of 64 schools to achieve this in Victoria) during 2018 so are very proud of our schools achievements.

It is refreshing that fathers are just as welcome as mothers in school life. From Kindergarten where I have the opportunity to participate in my youngest boy’s class to school camp that I was fortunate to attend, I have always been encouraged and warmly welcomed. I have also thoroughly enjoyed participating in class room help for all my boys.

ChrisKinder, Years 3, 4, 5

The move into the grade 5/6 area which is separate from the rest of the school gives the kids a real sense of being the ‘big kids’ and is a start to their transition to secondary school and being more responsible.

EmmaYear 6

The school garden is such a fantastic feature of our school. Garden Club students have the opportunity to learn about all aspects of gardening from the role of healthy soil to how to use silverbeet to make delicious pizzas. Science, nutrition and sustainability are explored in a truly hands on environment.

Kaylah AdamsFoundation teacher - Box Hill North Primary School

We run a progressive and innovative technology program to produce true 21st Century Citizens. Students in Prep enjoy using iPads and students in the senior school will be instructed with Ultrabooks as a part of our 1-to-1 program.